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Australia will lift longstanding bans that effectively barred sexually active gay and bisexual men, and some others, from donating blood and plasma. Starting 14 July, Australia will become the first country to remove all sexual activity-based restrictions for plasma donation; broader blood donation rule changes will follow in 2026. Instead of asking men if they’ve had sex with men, all donors will be asked about anal sex with new or multiple partners in the past three months—those who say yes must wait three months to donate blood but can still donate plasma. People on PrEP will be eligible for plasma donation but not blood; individuals with HIV or partners with HIV remain ineligible for plasma. The changes, approved by regulators, could add 625,000 donors, with research indicating no impact on safety given pathogen inactivation for plasma. Advocates welcomed the move but noted Australia’s blood rules remain more conservative than in the UK, Canada, and the US.

Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki on Flores, Indonesia, erupted on Tuesday, sending ash over 11 km high and prompting authorities to raise the alert to its highest level and establish a 7 km exclusion zone. More than 37 flights to and from Bali were canceled or delayed, affecting airlines including Air India, Air New Zealand, Jetstar, Juneyao Airlines, Singapore Airlines, and Virgin Australia; some domestic AirAsia flights to Flores were also canceled. No casualties have been reported, but officials warned of possible lahar floods if heavy rain occurs and urged residents to wear masks and evacuate from affected areas, as tremors indicate ongoing activity. The volcano had multiple deadly eruptions in November and last erupted in May.

A California physician, Dr. Salvador Plasencia, has agreed to plead guilty to four counts of distributing ketamine linked to Matthew Perry’s fatal overdose. Prosecutors say Plasencia injected Perry with ketamine at his home and elsewhere, taught Perry’s assistant to administer it, and sold additional vials and supplies. Between 30 September and 12 October 2023, he allegedly sold Perry and his assistant twenty 5ml vials, some lozenges, and syringes. The plea carries a potential 40-year sentence. Plasencia is one of five accused in an underground network supplying Perry, who was also receiving legally prescribed ketamine for depression.

President Donald Trump will issue a new executive order granting a 90-day extension to avoid a US ban on TikTok, marking the third such delay as ByteDance seeks a deal to place the app’s US operations under American control. The move contradicts a law, upheld by the Supreme Court, requiring a sale or ban over national security concerns about Chinese influence. Despite past efforts to force a sale and brief outages, analysts now doubt a ban will occur during Trump’s tenure, noting TikTok’s continued feature rollouts. Potential buyers include Oracle, a group led by Frank McCourt with Kevin O’Leary and Alexis Ohanian, and a separate investor group reportedly involving MrBeast. Trump says China’s approval may be needed but believes it will be secured.

A man who stalked Emma Raducanu earlier this year and received a restraining order in Dubai was blocked by Wimbledon’s security system from entering the public ticket ballot after his name was red-flagged. The incident follows Raducanu’s distressing experience in February, when she recognized the man—who had followed her across multiple tournaments—in the crowd during a match in Dubai. In response, Wimbledon has emphasized its robust and evolving security measures, including screening of ballot applicants, enhanced on-site surveillance, behavioral specialists, fixated threat teams, and bespoke protections for players, aiming to ensure their safety during the Championships.

Controversial Kenyan televangelist Gilbert Deya, known for claiming to create “miracle” pregnancies, died in a road crash near Kisumu, western Kenya. Police said he died at the scene after his vehicle collided with a university bus and another car; around 30 people were injured, including his wife and bus students. Deya, who ran a London church, was linked to alleged child trafficking and extradited from the UK after a long legal battle, but was acquitted in 2023 due to insufficient evidence. The Siaya County governor confirmed a county vehicle was involved in the “horrific” crash.

Minnesota authorities say Vance Luther Boelter, 57, who is charged with murdering Democratic state lawmaker Melissa Hortman and her husband and wounding Senator John Hoffman and his wife, also attempted to target at least two other lawmakers in a planned series of attacks. Disguised as a police officer with a realistic mask, Boelter allegedly shot the Hoffmans multiple times, then visited other lawmakers’ homes before fatally attacking the Hortmans. Police recovered multiple firearms, large amounts of ammunition, and a list of over 45 officials from his vehicle, suggesting broader intent. He was arrested after a two-day manhunt and faces federal charges including murder, stalking, and firearms offenses, as well as state murder and attempted murder charges. Officials said swift police action likely prevented a larger-scale attack.

Martina Navratilova, who defected from communist Czechoslovakia to the US in 1975 and became a tennis legend, says she wouldn’t choose America today under Donald Trump, calling the country “totalitarian” and hostile to migrants. She fears the current climate could even jeopardize citizenships and criticizes immigration crackdowns and loyalty demands. While agreeing with Trump on one issue, she remains firmly opposed to transgender women competing in women’s tennis, arguing biological advantages make it unfair and advocating participation in male categories. Navratilova also discusses surviving two cancers, saying treatment was “hell” but she is now clear, and that the experience deepened her appreciation for life.

Russia launched one of its largest recent attacks on Kyiv, firing 32 missiles and 440 drones across Ukraine, killing at least 24 people and injuring over 100. A ballistic missile and drones hit 27 locations in the capital, including a nine-story apartment block in Solomyanskyi that partially collapsed, destroying more than 40 flats; a 62-year-old US citizen was among the dead. Authorities accused Russia of using cluster bomblets, and warned the toll could rise as rescue efforts continue. Odesa was also struck, leaving two dead and 10 wounded. Moscow claimed it targeted military-industrial sites and hit all objectives. President Zelensky, at the G7 in Canada, condemned the strikes as terrorism and urged stronger international action, while the UK and allies prepared new sanctions on Russia. Russia reported downing 147 Ukrainian drones over nine regions and accused Ukraine of striking occupied Donetsk.

President Trump signed an order implementing parts of a limited UK-US tariff deal, lowering US tariffs on up to 100,000 UK-made cars to 10% from 25% and removing some aerospace duties. The order signals a framework for steel and aluminum but leaves key details—and the current 25% tariffs—unresolved, with potential increases if no agreement is reached by 9 July. The UK granted a tariff-free quota for 1.4 billion liters of US ethanol and will scrap a 20% tariff on US beef while raising quotas, pledging no weakening of food standards. UK officials hailed the move as significant for industry, though critics called it a modest pact far short of a full trade deal. UK carmakers welcomed the relief, but steel and bioethanol sectors warned of risks without clearer protections and support. The measures take effect seven days after publication.

Albert Ojwang, a 31-year-old teacher-turned-blogger, died in Nairobi’s Central Police Station shortly after being arrested over alleged defamatory social media posts about Kenya’s deputy police chief, Eliud Lagat. Police initially claimed he fatally injured himself, but a post-mortem and a rapid probe by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) ruled out suicide. Public outcry—fueled by Ojwang’s father’s emotional testimony and visible injuries—sparked nationwide outrage, revived accusations of police brutality and impunity, and prompted televised parliamentary hearings. The police chief retracted the initial account, apologized, and said juniors misinformed him; Lagat stepped aside pending investigations. Activists link Ojwang’s case to broader patterns of deadly police responses to dissent, while the unusually swift, public inquiry has effectively put Kenya’s police practices on trial.

Seven Southern California men were indicted for allegedly executing the largest jewelry heist in U.S. history: the 2022 theft of about $100 million in gold, gems, and luxury watches from a Brinks armored semitruck leaving a San Mateo jewelry show. Prosecutors say the group scouted the show, tailed the truck roughly 300 miles, and stole 24 of 73 cargo bags at rest stops before fencing the goods in Los Angeles. Two suspects were arrested and pleaded not guilty; one is in Arizona prison; four remain at large. Some jewelry has been recovered. Several defendants also face charges tied to separate 2022 truck robberies involving Samsung electronics and Apple AirTags. Authorities credit a multi-agency investigation led by the FBI and Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.

U.S. bankruptcy trustee Christopher Murray filed three lawsuits accusing Alex Jones of fraudulently transferring about $5 million in cash, cars, and property to his ex-wife, father, and a trust to avoid paying the $1.3 billion he owes Sandy Hook families. The suits allege sham transactions, including $1.5 million to his ex-wife under an unratified prenup, a $10 sale of ranch property to his father with backdated documents, over $500,000 in purported “reimbursements,” gifting luxury vehicles, and moving two condos to a family trust (one transfer allegedly botched). Jones, who has long claimed insolvency, now faces a jury trial on whether he intentionally hindered creditors. The families’ lawyers say they will continue efforts to enforce the verdict as Jones appeals in state courts amid a years-long bankruptcy process.

The Florida Panthers won the Stanley Cup for a second straight year, defeating the Edmonton Oilers 5-1 in Game 6. Sam Reinhart scored four goals—the first player to do so in a Final game since 1957—and Matthew Tkachuk netted the clincher. Sergei Bobrovsky made 28 saves. Florida has now won 11 of 12 playoff series since 2022 under coach Paul Maurice, fueling dynasty talk after three straight Final appearances and two titles. Sam Bennett led all postseason scorers with 15 goals and won the Conn Smythe Trophy. Edmonton’s stars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl were contained, extending Canada’s Cup drought to 31 seasons.

NPR announced 11 honorable mentions from nearly 300 entries in its 2024 College Podcast Challenge, highlighting strong storytelling from students across the U.S. Topics ranged from adoption, mental health and the model minority myth, immigration, campus scandals, and voting representation to gospel music history, the costs of pursuing dreams, and the resonance of words and vinyl records. The honored schools include University of Kentucky, Wesleyan, Miami Dade College, Columbia, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, Oberlin Conservatory, Princeton, Northwestern State University, Stanford, Minnesota State University Mankato, and San Diego City College. The contest returns in Fall 2025.

A Massachusetts jury acquitted Karen Read of second-degree murder, manslaughter while operating under the influence, and leaving the scene in the 2022 death of her boyfriend, Boston police officer John O’Keefe. She was convicted only of operating a vehicle under the influence and received one year of probation. Prosecutors argued Read hit O’Keefe with her SUV and left him in a snowstorm; the defense claimed he was killed during a fight inside a fellow officer’s house and that police tampered with evidence to frame Read. The retrial, following a 2024 hung jury, featured extensive forensic disputes, allegations of investigative misconduct, and conflicting timelines for a key Google search about dying in the cold. Supporters celebrated outside the courthouse after the verdict.

North Korea will send 1,000 deminers and 5,000 military construction troops to help rebuild Russia’s Kursk region, according to Russian officials after Security Council chief Sergei Shoigu’s visit to Pyongyang. This follows reports that around 15,000 North Korean soldiers have already fought alongside Russia in Ukraine, with memorials planned for North Korean casualties. Kim Jong Un reiterated unconditional support for Russia, though North Korean media did not confirm the specific deployment. The deepening Moscow-Pyongyang ties, reinforced by a 2024 mutual defense treaty, have alarmed the U.S., South Korea, and Japan, who warn of U.N. sanctions violations and potential Russian tech transfers aiding North Korea’s weapons programs. South Korea’s intelligence says Russia has provided air defense missiles, EW gear, drones, and satellite tech, and that thousands of North Korean laborers are already in Russia.

Social Security’s main trust fund is projected to run out in 2033, about nine months earlier than previously expected, triggering an automatic 23% cut to benefits unless Congress acts. The earlier depletion is driven by a new law boosting benefits for some former public-sector workers, lower assumptions for wages and birth rates, and more people claiming earlier. Payroll taxes would still cover about 77% of scheduled retirement benefits after depletion; the disability fund remains solvent through 2099. Combining the funds would extend full benefits to 2034 with a 19% cut after. Proposed fixes include raising revenue—such as taxing higher earnings and investment income—or reducing benefits, raising the retirement age, or a mix. The report also warns Medicare’s hospital insurance trust fund could be depleted in eight years, covering only 89% of promised benefits thereafter.

NPR’s Student Podcast Challenge is an annual national competition inviting students in grades 4–12—and via a separate contest, college students—to create and submit original podcasts for a chance to be featured on NPR and win awards. The series page aggregates announcements, deadlines, guides, and standout stories, including winning and finalist entries. Highlights include the 2025 return of the K–12 contest, extended deadlines, a podcasting how-to guide, and featured winners such as a fourth grader’s family immigration story, a middle schooler’s account of life with a service dog, a high schooler’s podcast about a parent’s incarceration, and the college grand-prize podcast exploring friendship and singlehood. The page serves as a hub for resources, inspiration, and recognition of student audio storytelling.

Anne Burrell, a Food Network TV chef best known for co-hosting Worst Cooks in America, died at her New York home at 55. The cause of death is pending an autopsy. Burrell began her TV career on Iron Chef America, later hosted Secrets of a Restaurant Chef, competed on House of Knives, and made frequent Today show appearances. Celebrated for approachable, bold cooking and her spiky platinum hair, she led Worst Cooks for 27 seasons through 2024. A CIA graduate who once worked in top NYC restaurants, she authored two cookbooks and supported various charities. She is survived by her husband, stepson, mother, and two siblings.

CDC’s latest provisional data show U.S. drug overdose deaths rose by about 1,400 in the 12 months ending January 2025, to roughly 82,138, breaking a 17-month decline and following a 27% drop in 2024. Deaths remain well below the August 2023 peak of 114,664. Experts are unsure if this is a temporary fluctuation or a reversal, citing factors like changing street drug potency and mixes (fentanyl, cocaine, meth, xylazine, medetomidine). Increases appear concentrated in Texas, Arizona, California, and Washington, while most regions still trend downward. The uptick predates any new federal policy changes but comes as debates intensify over potential cuts and reorganizations to addiction treatment funding, especially Medicaid. CDC and addiction specialists urge sustained public health investment and monitoring.

Pakistan’s Senate has advanced a bill to criminalize a broad range of occult practices, with penalties of up to seven years in prison and hefty fines. Supporters say the measure targets “black magic” to protect social order; critics warn its vague definitions could sweep in astrologers, palmists, spiritual healers, and other traditional practitioners. Figures like Lahore-based astrologer Shahbaz Anjum stress they don’t practice sorcery and fear a crackdown will stigmatize legitimate counseling and cultural traditions. The move highlights tensions in Pakistan between religious conservatism, legal enforcement, and popular reliance on spiritual guidance across classes.

The article profiles Katie Miller, a former Trump aide and wife of senior Trump adviser Stephen Miller, who became Elon Musk’s top operative in Washington during Musk’s brief, high-impact foray into the federal government. Wielding influence with the phrase “Elon wants this,” she served as Musk’s conduit to the Trump White House and agencies, sometimes drawing resentment and skepticism from officials who questioned whether she always reflected Musk’s true positions. After Musk’s dramatic break with Trump and departure from his government efficiency initiative, Miller planned to keep working for Musk privately, creating tension given her husband’s loyalty to Trump and fueling Washington chatter about her role amid the Trump-Musk feud. The piece portrays Miller as a relentless, chameleon-like operator whose power has been tied to powerful men, now navigating the fallout as a key—if uneasy—link between two volatile camps. It also sketches her long-standing partisan instincts and hard-edged tactics dating back to college.

The FDA approved lenacapavir (Yeztugo), a twice-yearly injectable PrEP that showed near-complete protection against HIV in trials, marking a major advance in prevention. Despite its promise and convenience over daily pills and the bimonthly Apretude, access is uncertain due to high U.S. pricing, potential insurance barriers, and proposed Medicaid cuts. Globally, rollout is threatened by reduced funding for PEPFAR and the Global Fund, with Gilead planning no-profit supply for up to two million people in low-income countries and future generic licensing, but limited provisions for middle-income nations. Advocates warn that without robust funding and access plans, the opportunity to curb new infections could be missed.

China’s gold-buying boom, driven by weak alternatives like property and stocks, has helped push global prices to records—but it’s exposing investors to scams and losses. Yongkun Gold, a prominent retailer and online platform that promised guaranteed buybacks and high returns, halted withdrawals, shut stores, and vanished, stranding thousands of investors who believed their gold was bank-vaulted. Police have opened a criminal investigation and moved quickly to deter protests, reflecting official concern about social unrest. The episode highlights how ordinary Chinese savers, seeking safety amid a slowing economy and trade tensions, have piled into gold—fueling demand while becoming vulnerable to fraudulent schemes and opaque products.

During a White House news conference, President Trump invited a flagpole work crew to stand behind him, then jokingly asked if any were “illegal immigrants,” saying the media would investigate them and promising, ambiguously, to be “right behind” them. The exchange highlighted confusion over his shifting immigration stance: while championing hard-line policies, he has recently eased raids in sectors like agriculture and hospitality, even as Homeland Security maintains worksite enforcement as a priority. Pressed on contradictions, Trump said “Everybody’s right,” and emphasized prioritizing deportations of criminals, while saying the U.S. must “take care” of farmers and hotel operators. The moment underscored internal tensions and mixed signals within his administration’s approach to immigration.

President Trump will issue a third 90-day extension giving TikTok until mid-September to separate from ByteDance or face a U.S. ban, despite a law—upheld by the Supreme Court—requiring divestment. The extensions, tied to broader U.S.-China trade talks and Trump’s political pivot on the app, have stalled enforcement and frustrated some lawmakers citing national security risks over data and influence operations. A near-deal led by Vice President JD Vance collapsed amid tariff tensions; potential U.S. investors included Blackstone and Andreessen Horowitz. TikTok continues courting advertisers and projecting confidence while facing typical platform controversies, as political momentum to force a shutdown remains limited.

Trump administration visa pauses and travel restrictions are jeopardizing July 1 start dates for international medical graduates, threatening staffing at hundreds of U.S. hospitals—especially safety-net and rural facilities that rely heavily on foreign residents. While the State Department has resumed J-1 visa appointments with added social media vetting and possible “national interest exceptions,” delays and bans could leave an estimated 1,000 residents unable to start, creating care gaps as senior residents depart. Foreign-trained doctors make up one in five U.S. physicians and one in six residents, often filling primary care shortages. Hospitals risk disrupted patient care, accreditation issues, and lost Medicare funds if residency staffing falls short. Administrators warn prolonged restrictions could “gut” programs that depend on international graduates.

Britain is set for its first heat wave of the year as a high-pressure system over southern England drives temperatures to 30–34°C (86–93°F) through the weekend, with very warm nights and possible “tropical nights” above 20°C (68°F). The U.K. Health Security Agency issued an amber heat health alert for all of England, warning of increased health risks, especially for older adults and vulnerable people. While records are unlikely to be broken, heat wave thresholds could be met across much of England and parts of Wales, with potential thunderstorms in the north and west. Some relief may arrive late weekend, though elevated temperatures could persist into early next week.

A new study suggests Homo sapiens became true ecological generalists in Africa about 70,000 years ago, expanding from relatively moderate habitats into more extreme deserts and forests as a cooling, drying climate fragmented earlier lush environments. This shift broadened humans’ ecological niche, increased connectivity among populations, and accelerated cultural exchange and adaptive skills. That growing versatility likely enabled the successful migration out of Africa around 50,000 years ago, unlike earlier failed dispersals.

Judge William G. Young, an 84-year-old Reagan-appointed federal judge in Boston, is rapidly moving multiple Trump administration cases to trial, reflecting his long-standing belief that courts should swiftly adjudicate facts. He recently blocked NIH grant cuts targeting diversity-related research, calling them unconstitutional racial discrimination. Young will also preside over imminent trials challenging efforts to deport student activists and to halt offshore wind projects, pressing the government for early, substantive answers—especially on free speech implications for foreign students. Known for his outspoken defense of jury trials and skepticism of coercive plea practices, Young maintains an unorthodox, transparent courtroom style that encourages juror engagement. Despite taking senior status, he carries a heavy docket and positions his court as a check on executive overreach, emphasizing evidence-driven, impartial trials.

Analysts say the silence after the latest US-China trade talks in London signals heightened tension and a strategic shift. China’s focus on export controls—particularly on rare earths—appears to have surprised the US side, moving the contest from tariffs to supply-chain choke points. This recalibration suggests China is negotiating from greater strength, with commerce ministers now central to the talks. The lack of readouts deepens uncertainty for global markets and supply chains, but some see a potential tactical turning point in the broader trade war.

Alibaba has hired leading speech-recognition scientist Li Xiangang, PhD from Peking University, to head its speech AI research within the Tongyi Lab, replacing Yan Zhijie. The lab focuses on multimodal speech-language models and previously open-sourced SenseVoice and CosyVoice, with SenseVoice reportedly outperforming OpenAI’s Whisper by 50% in Chinese and Cantonese. The move strengthens Alibaba’s push in speech-based AI amid escalating competition in China, where rivals like Baidu are showcasing advanced digital avatars.

Chinese participation at the 2025 Paris Air Show has surged, with 76 exhibitors—more than double 2023—marking the first de facto Chinese pavilion. Beyond headline names like Comac, dozens of lesser-known suppliers across the aerospace supply chain are courting European buyers amid slowing domestic growth and intense home-market competition. Firms such as titanium sponge producer Baoti Huashen highlight a push to diversify and secure overseas business as profits plateau in China.

China’s humanoid robotics sector is offering sharply higher pay to attract scarce AI and engineering talent, with algorithm engineers averaging 31,512 yuan per month (rising to 38,489 yuan with 5+ years’ experience) and mechanical design engineers averaging 22,264 yuan—roughly three to four times China’s urban average salary of 10,058 yuan. The wage surge reflects a government-backed push to lead in humanoid robotics amid a broader weak job market marked by layoffs, pay cuts, and high youth unemployment, which eased slightly to 15.8% in April but faces pressure from a record cohort of new graduates.

China has signaled readiness to help broker a ceasefire between Israel and Iran, with President Xi urging de-escalation and Foreign Minister Wang Yi engaging both sides. Beijing condemned Israel’s strikes as violating international law and warned Chinese citizens to leave the region. While China and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation call for a diplomatic resolution, analysts caution that Beijing’s influence may be limited despite its active diplomatic posture.

Hong Kong’s labour minister Chris Sun said the city’s rise in unemployment to 3.5% (a 30‑month high) is not driven by imported workers, noting only about 55,000 have come under the scheme—less than 1% of the workforce. He attributed the uptick to economic transition and geopolitical uncertainty but maintained a 2–3% growth outlook for 2025. In response to public concern over displacement by cheaper foreign labour, the Labour Department introduced new measures to prioritize local employment.

At the Paris Air Show, Boeing’s Turbo Sjogren urged Europe to reduce reliance on China for critical minerals in the defense and aerospace sectors, mirroring U.S. policy. He emphasized that while the aerospace supply chain is inherently global and interdependent—with significant cross-Atlantic content in major programs—depending on China for critical materials poses strategic risks. Sjogren noted the U.S. has long-standing legislation preventing defense reliance on countries like China and argued that shifting supply chains otherwise would be too slow and costly, reinforcing the need for coordinated Western collaboration to ensure resilience and sovereignty.

Hong Kong will launch a pilot database this year to identify high-risk carers of elderly people, amid persistently high elderly suicide numbers. Authorities are working with the Privacy Commissioner to enable compliant data sharing under the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance. The database will cover carers of older residents, including those from low-income households. In 2024, there were 472 suicides among people aged 60+, similar to 2023 and 2022, and accounting for 41% of all suicides. The government aims to roll out the pilot as soon as possible.

China successfully conducted a zero-altitude escape test of its next-generation Mengzhou crewed spacecraft at the Jiuquan launch site, demonstrating its emergency abort system for rocket failures during liftoff. The return capsule separated, deployed parachutes, and landed safely with airbag cushioning, marking China’s first such test since 1998. Mengzhou, central to China’s 2030 lunar plans, has modular variants: a near-Earth version for space station operations carrying up to seven astronauts, and a deep-space model for moon missions. The successful test underscores advanced capabilities and hints at differing approaches between China and the U.S. in returning to the moon.

Taiwan hosted a two-day uncrewed surface vehicle (USV) demonstration at Suao port featuring 12 companies—seven from Taiwan and the rest from the US—to bolster asymmetric defense amid rising PLA pressure. Organized by the National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology, the event aims to develop a standardized control system and modular USV platforms for dual-use missions such as patrol, SAR, environmental monitoring, and logistics, enhancing flexibility and scalability. A deal was also signed with a US firm to supply drone operating technology used by Ukraine against Russia.

Chinese exporters are increasingly using cross-border e-commerce to sell directly to global consumers, especially in the U.S., but face intensifying competition and tariffs that are pushing them beyond price-based strategies. Industry voices at the Shenzhen expo say long-term success hinges on brand building—differentiation, storytelling, and higher-quality products—supported by tools like generative AI for market research and creative production. Financing is shifting toward marketing, with ad spend rising to as much as 20% of transaction value, while legal challenges in foreign markets are prompting efforts to create low-cost, pooled litigation support and emphasize trademarks and compliance. Despite rapid growth and enthusiasm, many sellers still mimic each other and compete on price, highlighting a critical gap between short-term sales tactics and the harder, longer-term work of building defensible global brands.

The U.K. government reversed course to fund a £750 million exascale supercomputer in Edinburgh, responding to pressure and Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang’s warning that Britain lacks sovereign AI infrastructure despite a strong AI ecosystem. While this move boosts AI capabilities, concerns grow that the U.K. is losing ground in quantum computing: Oxford Ionics agreed to a $1.1 billion takeover by U.S.-based IonQ, fueling fears the U.K. is an “incubator” that scales innovation abroad. Industry voices cite delayed National Quantum Strategy funding and stronger U.S./international support drawing talent and capital away. Meanwhile, BT’s CEO signaled AI could drive deeper job cuts beyond current plans, highlighting political and social tensions as the government champions AI-driven growth.

Japan’s exports fell 1.7% year over year in May, the sharpest drop since September 2024 but better than the 3.8% decline expected. Shipments to the U.S. slid 11.1% and to China 8.8%, with global automobile exports down 6.9% and U.S.-bound motor vehicles plunging 24.7%. Imports fell 7.7%, yielding a smaller-than-expected trade deficit of 637.6 billion yen. Rising U.S. tariff risks— including a planned 24% reciprocal rate on all other exports from July 9—are weighing on Japan’s outlook, with the BOJ warning growth will moderate. Tariffs are seen as the main threat, and despite ongoing U.S.-Japan talks, a full return to pre-Trump trade terms is unlikely. Japan’s economy already contracted 0.2% last quarter.

Klarna CEO Sebastian Siemiatkowski plans to transform Klarna into an AI-powered “super app” and digital financial assistant that personalizes services beyond payments, including non-financial offerings. As part of this push, Klarna is launching $40/month U.S. mobile phone plans via partner Gigs, reflecting a broader move to bundle services and proactively optimize users’ expenses using AI. Siemiatkowski says past super-app efforts were confusing, but AI now enables tailored experiences. Klarna aims to expand into investments in stocks and crypto, though it doesn’t seek to compete with Robinhood. The company faces a U.S. perception challenge as primarily a BNPL provider, unlike Europe where it’s seen as a broader payments platform. Klarna posted a $99 million quarterly loss due to one-off costs, and has paused IPO plans after U.S. tariff developments, though it says the U.S. is now its largest and profitable market.

Nintendo’s stock has surged 46% in 2025, adding about $39 billion in value, driven by strong demand for the newly launched Switch 2. The console sold 3.5 million units in its first four days, prompting shortages and extended store hours. While Nintendo forecasts 15 million units sold by March 2026, analysts expect higher. Building on the original Switch’s 152 million lifetime sales and leveraging major franchises like Mario, Zelda, and Pokémon, Nintendo’s strategy has propelled a nearly 470% share gain since 2017, adding over $81 billion in market cap.

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman said Meta has tried to recruit OpenAI employees with signing bonuses up to $100 million and even larger total compensation, but none of OpenAI’s top staff have accepted. He suggested Meta views OpenAI as its main rival and criticized the strategy of copying and using large guaranteed pay. The push comes as Mark Zuckerberg builds a “superintelligence” lab, invests heavily in AI, and hires high-profile talent, including Scale AI founder Alexandr Wang via a $14.3 billion deal for a 49% stake, and researchers like Jack Rae. Meta has reportedly delayed a flagship model release, but analysts note its Llama open-source models underpin much of today’s AI development and that its large investments could advance its training capabilities. Meta did not comment.

Ram Trucks will introduce a 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty across its 2026 lineup, covering major drivetrain components and replacing its current 5-year/60,000-mile coverage. Positioned as an industry-leading move amid rising vehicle prices and longer loan terms, the plan aims to retain and attract customers as Ram works to reverse a roughly 38% sales decline since 2019. The warranty applies to original owners of 2026 Ram trucks and vans (including chassis cabs), excludes fleet purchases and the Promaster EV, and may be extended beyond 2026 depending on customer response. Competitors like Ford, GM, and Toyota currently offer 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain coverage; Kia offers similar 10-year warranties industry-wide. Ram acknowledges higher warranty risk but believes customer value outweighs costs.

Global manufacturers are increasingly using “tariff engineering” — legally tweaking product materials, dimensions, or components — to qualify for tariff classifications with lower duty rates. The practice, long upheld by courts, has surged amid broad U.S. tariffs under President Trump’s second term, with companies adjusting designs to exploit carve-outs and changing policies (e.g., bundling or stripping steel/aluminum parts to shift Section 232 rates). Examples include Columbia Sportswear adding pockets to reclassify garments, Converse using fuzzy soles to treat sneakers as slippers, and Snuggies winning blanket status. While common in apparel and consumer goods, it’s harder in regulated sectors like autos and medical devices due to validation needs. Experts stress the line between lawful redesign and misclassification: products must reflect “commercial reality” at import, as shown by Ford’s penalty for importing vans as passenger vehicles then converting them to cargo. Tariff engineering remains a key, legal cost-mitigation tool when changes genuinely alter a product’s characteristics.

The U.S. and EU are nearing a July 9 deadline before suspended tariffs snap back, risking 50% U.S. duties on EU goods and EU countermeasures. Talks are stalled over three main issues: EU regulation of Big Tech (Washington wants rollbacks; Brussels rejects interference), taxation (the U.S. criticizes EU VAT as a trade barrier; the EU insists taxes are domestic and non-negotiable), and mismatched negotiating approaches (the U.S. seeks unilateral concessions; the EU wants reciprocal, zero-for-zero cuts). Analysts see low odds of a broad deal; a narrow, sector-specific or reduced-tariff arrangement is possible but unlikely. Many expect no deal, mutual retaliation, and potential escalation unless economic pain forces de-escalation.

The article argues that businesses often make flawed choices due to predictable cognitive biases and proposes a simple discipline: ask three questions before deciding. First, what biases could be distorting this choice (e.g., mood effects, greenwashing cues, overconfidence from social sharing)? Second, what base rates and outside views should anchor the decision, rather than relying on inside narratives? Third, what would change your mind—defining disconfirming evidence and pre-commitments upfront. This checklist helps slow thinking, improves risk calibration, and leads to more consistent, higher-quality decisions across an organization.

The article examines whether Tesla’s pivot to robotaxis can revive its fortunes amid slowing EV demand and intensifying competition. It outlines strategic and technical hurdles: achieving reliable full self-driving, regulatory approvals across jurisdictions, capital needs for fleet deployment, and consumer trust. It also notes competitive pressure from Chinese EV/AI firms and established automakers, and suggests that Elon Musk’s public feud with Donald Trump could complicate regulatory and political support in the U.S. The piece concludes that while robotaxis could transform Tesla’s economics if executed at scale, success hinges on overcoming safety, regulation, and execution risks—making the bet high-reward but highly uncertain.

The article argues that every company has a culture by default, but few intentionally define and embed it. Simply declaring values like “transparency” or “collaboration” is ineffective; culture must be operationalized through consistent behaviors, incentives, hiring, and everyday practices. Leaders should clarify the specific behaviors they want, align systems to reinforce them, and model them visibly. Culture isn’t slogans—it’s what gets rewarded, who gets promoted, how decisions are made, and how people behave when no one is watching.

The piece argues, with Trump’s planned Bastille Day-style military parade as a hook, that American business could learn from France’s corporate playbook. It suggests “French” strengths—long-term industrial strategy, state-backed scale, worker training, and design-led quality—can bolster US competitiveness. The column contrasts America’s short-term, finance-driven focus with France’s coordinated public–private approach and stronger workplace culture, proposing that selective Gallic practices (industrial policy discipline, apprenticeship pipelines, and values-driven corporate identity) could improve decision-making, innovation, and resilience in U.S. firms.

Brazilian meat giant JBS, the world’s largest food company by revenue, is listing on the New York Stock Exchange to access cheaper capital and fuel expansion in the U.S. The move threatens American competitors but exposes JBS to increased legal and political risks, including scrutiny from environmental groups and a bipartisan set of U.S. lawmakers critical of its practices.

The Economist partnered with CultureX to analyze corporate culture at 900 firms across 19 industries using 2023–2025 Glassdoor reviews. CultureX’s NLP model classifies free-text reviews into 200+ topics, grouped into nine themes: leadership, support, toxicity, work-life balance, agility, candour, innovation, strategy, and transparency. Scores reflect how frequently and positively these themes appear, benchmarked by industry and reported in standard deviations from the peer average. Findings show culture is multidimensional—companies can excel in some areas and lag in others—and strong leadership often correlates with higher scores elsewhere. The study applies fraud and robustness checks, excluding 5% of firms for suspected manipulation. The aim is to help match workers’ cultural preferences (e.g., innovation or balance) with suitable employers rather than promote a single ideal culture.

The Economist, partnering with CultureX, analyzed anonymous Glassdoor reviews from 2023–2025 to assess corporate culture across 900 firms in 19 industries. Using NLP to classify text into 200+ topics grouped into nine themes—leadership, support, toxicity, work-life balance, agility, candour, innovation, strategy and transparency—the study benchmarks firms against industry peers, reporting scores in standard deviations from the average. Results show culture is multidimensional: companies can excel in some areas (e.g., leadership) while lagging in others, and strong leadership often correlates with better performance across multiple themes. Rigorous anti-fraud measures by Glassdoor and additional robustness checks by CultureX led to dropping 5% of firms for suspected manipulation. The aim is not a single ideal culture but better matching of workers’ preferences (e.g., innovation, work-life balance) with suitable employers.

The article argues that China is increasingly embracing open-source software—releasing code, contributing to global projects, and building domestic open-source ecosystems—as a strategic response to U.S. export controls, supply-chain risks, and the need to reduce dependence on Western tech stacks. By open-sourcing, Chinese firms and state-backed groups can accelerate innovation, attract global developer talent, and set de facto standards, especially in areas like AI frameworks, chip design toolchains, operating systems, and cloud infrastructure. This strategy also helps Chinese technology spread internationally despite sanctions, since open-source reduces barriers to adoption. However, it creates tension with China’s authoritarian governance: open collaboration, transparent code, and decentralized communities sit awkwardly alongside censorship, cybersecurity laws, and state control. The result is a calibrated openness—generous with technical artifacts to gain influence and resilience, while retaining political control and pushing for self-reliance in critical layers of the stack.

A 21-year-old former student who killed nine students and a teacher at a Graz high school in a seven-minute attack had developed a strong fascination with school shootings, glorifying the acts and perpetrators, Austrian police said. Investigators found he still had significant ammunition when he died by suicide, raising questions about why he stopped. Eleven others were wounded, with two still in intensive care. Police are dealing with numerous copycat threats, prompting around 30 interventions in Graz alone. Austria’s chancellor said the country’s relatively liberal gun laws will be tightened following the attack.

Spain’s government says the massive April power outage across Spain and Portugal was caused by a miscalculation by grid operator REE, which failed to have enough thermal plants online during peak demand. The system lacked sufficient dynamic voltage control, triggering a chain reaction blackout that disrupted airports, trains, internet, and traffic. A government report found some plants did not perform required voltage regulation despite being paid to do so. No evidence of a cyberattack was found.

EasyJet cabin crew in Spain, represented by the USO union, will strike from Wednesday 25 June to Friday 27 June over pay disparities with colleagues in other countries. Around 650 attendants based in Alicante, Barcelona, Malaga, and Palma de Mallorca may participate. EasyJet says it plans to operate normally and minimize disruption, noting crews are employed on local terms across eight countries. Spanish regulations require minimum service levels during strikes.

French police used tear gas on hundreds of migrants rushing to a dinghy at Gravelines beach near Calais, with some still wading into the sea to attempt a Channel crossing. The incident came as No 10 said the situation in the Channel is “deteriorating,” with over 16,300 crossings so far in 2025—up 43% year-on-year. Despite the tear gas, more than 50 people boarded the boat, which later returned to shore. After talks at the G7, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and France’s Emmanuel Macron agreed to make migration a key focus ahead of a July summit. Downing Street said there are no quick fixes but touted closer cooperation with France, including efforts to allow French intervention in shallow waters; it declined to comment directly on the use of tear gas.

Despite extensive sanctions and Western companies exiting Russia, many Western goods remain widely available there via “parallel imports” through third countries. Sky News found products like Coca-Cola, Kellogg’s, Bonne Maman, and BrewDog on Moscow shelves, imported without brand owners’ permission—legal in Russia and often outside formal sanctions as food and drink are mostly exempt. The same networks also facilitate entry of sanctioned luxury cars, routed via countries such as Turkey, Armenia, Kazakhstan, and others, inflating prices but meeting demand. Importers and dealers describe complex, risky routes and justify the trade as business necessity, arguing Russia cannot be effectively isolated as long as global demand and alternative channels exist.

A single Irish ticket-holder won the record €250m EuroMillions jackpot in the 17 June 2025 draw, which was capped at the game’s maximum. The winning numbers were 13, 22, 23, 44, 49 and Lucky Stars 3 and 5. The Irish National Lottery will reveal the winning location soon and advised the winner to sign the ticket, keep it safe, and seek legal and financial advice. Over 3.9 million prizes were won overall, including more than 92,000 in Ireland, and two UK players won about £6.29m each.

A single ticket-holder in Ireland won the record €250m EuroMillions jackpot, the game’s maximum cap. The winning numbers were 13, 22, 23, 44, 49 and Lucky Stars 3 and 5. The Irish National Lottery will reveal the winning location soon and advised the winner to sign the ticket, keep it safe, and seek legal and financial advice. Over 3.95 million prizes were awarded across the draw, including more than 92,000 winners in Ireland. Two UK players won £6.29m each for matching five numbers and one Lucky Star.

Food Network star Anne Burrell, 55, was found unconscious and unresponsive at her Brooklyn home on June 17 and pronounced dead at the scene, according to the NYPD. Her cause of death is pending an autopsy. Burrell’s family and Food Network issued tributes praising her warmth and impact. Known for shows like Worst Cooks in America, Iron Chef America, Chopped, and her Emmy-nominated Secrets of a Restaurant Chef, she also authored two cookbooks. Friends and colleagues, including Tyler Florence and Franklin Becker, shared heartfelt remembrances. She is survived by her husband, Stuart Claxton, his son Javier, her mother, and siblings.

Celebrity chef Anne Burrell died at 55 on June 17. Five days earlier, she posted her final Instagram photo after meeting NYC icon Elizabeth “Green Lady of Brooklyn” Rosenthal, expressing delight at the encounter. Rosenthal responded warmly and invited Burrell to visit her garden. Burrell’s family confirmed her death at home in Brooklyn; the cause was not disclosed. The Food Network praised her as a remarkable talent. She is survived by her husband, stepson, mother, sister, and brother.

In the Fever’s 88-71 win over the Sun, a third-quarter incident escalated after Jacy Sheldon poked Caitlin Clark in the eye. Clark bumped Sheldon, prompting Connecticut’s Tina Charles to confront Clark and Marina Mabrey to shove her to the floor. Clark, Mabrey, and Charles received technicals; Sheldon was called for a flagrant 1, with officials citing unnecessary contact to the face. Clark hit both flagrant free throws and finished with 20 points and six assists. Fever coach Stephanie White criticized the officiating for losing control. Late in the game, another scuffle led to ejections of Indiana’s Sophie Cunningham and Connecticut’s Sheldon and Lindsay Allen. The game was Clark’s second back from a quad strain.

Karen Read, a financial analyst, was acquitted of second-degree murder, manslaughter, and leaving the scene in the 2022 death of her Boston police officer boyfriend, John O’Keefe, and convicted only of drunk driving at her second trial. Outside the Dedham, Mass., courthouse, Read claimed she and her team fought hardest for O’Keefe’s justice and thanked supporters. O’Keefe’s friends and key prosecution witnesses condemned the verdict as a miscarriage of justice, accusing Read and her defense of spreading lies and conspiracy theories. Prosecutors had alleged Read struck O’Keefe with her car after a night of drinking; the defense argued she was scapegoated amid a police cover-up.

A viral TikTok video has resurfaced the longstanding U.S. ban on the Samsung Galaxy Note 7, which remains prohibited on all flights due to its fire-risk battery issues from 2016. The FAA, DOT, and PHMSA continue to enforce an emergency order barring the device from being carried or packed in any luggage on flights to, from, or within the U.S. The article also notes a recent related rule: lithium battery-powered items like power banks are banned from checked baggage and must be kept in carry-ons with terminals protected.

Former CNN correspondent Jim Acosta drew backlash after joking on a podcast about Ivana Trump’s burial at Trump’s Bedminster golf club, quipping that immigrants “do the jobs Americans don’t want to do.” The White House condemned Acosta, with press secretary Karoline Leavitt calling him “a disgraceful human being.” Acosta, a frequent Trump critic who left CNN in January, made the comments while criticizing ICE raids and Trump’s stance on immigration. Ivana Trump, mother of Donald Jr., Ivanka, and Eric, died in 2022 and is buried at the New Jersey course.

Researchers have confirmed that Captain James Cook’s HMS Endeavour lies at the bottom of Newport Harbor, Rhode Island, resolving a decadeslong mystery. Australian historians first identified the likely site in 1998; a 26-year archival and archaeological effort by the Australian National Maritime Museum and Rhode Island partners has now verified it. After Cook’s Pacific voyages (1768–1771), the ship was later used in the American Revolutionary War, renamed Lord Sandwich, and deliberately sunk in 1778. Given its global historical significance and complex legacy—linked to exploration, colonization, and First Nations histories—authorities are moving to secure strong legal and physical protection for the wreck.

France sealed off booths of five Israeli defense firms at the Paris Air Show, citing a ban on displaying “offensive weapons” amid the Gaza war. Black walls blocked stands of IAI, Rafael, Uvision, Elbit, and Aeronautics, which showcase drones and guided munitions. Prime Minister François Bayrou said defensive systems were allowed but offensive ones were not, reflecting France’s concern over Gaza. Israel condemned the move as “outrageous,” alleging political and commercial motives and noting other countries displayed strike munitions, including French-made systems. The dispute overshadowed the show, which also featured Airbus order announcements and Boeing’s restrained presence following the deadly Air India 787 crash.

Mexican band Los Alegres del Barranco, under investigation for glorifying Jalisco New Generation Cartel leader “El Mencho” after projecting his image at a concert, released an anti-narco song titled “El Consejo” warning that drug trafficking leads to death or prison. The move follows U.S. visa revocations and a probe by Jalisco prosecutors, who said the positive message could lead to suspending the case, though the band is still being investigated for suspected illicit funding. The controversy comes amid broader Mexican crackdowns on narcocorridos, recent violence against performers, and a government-backed music competition promoting peace and anti-addiction messaging.

Residents across southern Europe staged coordinated anti-overtourism protests, with Spain at the center. In Barcelona and Mallorca, some demonstrators sprayed tourists with water guns to highlight anger over rising rents, the conversion of homes to short-term rentals, and the displacement of locals. Thousands rallied in Mallorca and hundreds more in other Spanish cities, as well as in Venice and Lisbon. Spain, which welcomed a record 94 million visitors in 2024, is tightening rules: the government ordered Airbnb to remove tens of thousands of illegal listings, and Barcelona plans to eliminate all 10,000 short-term rental licenses by 2028. While the tourism sector argues it’s being scapegoated, residents say mass tourism is eroding housing access and everyday life; some tourists took the water-gun actions in stride amid the heat. Authorities are seeking ways to balance tourism’s economic importance with housing and quality-of-life concerns.

The Louvre unexpectedly closed after staff staged a spontaneous strike over overcrowding, chronic understaffing, and poor working conditions. Workers cited unmanageable visitor volumes, inadequate facilities, and building issues like leaks and temperature swings. The closure underscores wider overtourism pressures, especially around the Mona Lisa, which draws dense crowds. Although President Macron’s “Louvre New Renaissance” plan promises renovations—including a dedicated Mona Lisa room, a new entrance by 2031, and improved visitor flow—staff say relief is needed now. The museum hosted 8.7 million visitors last year, far exceeding its design capacity; ticket prices for non-EU tourists are set to rise to help fund the €700–€800 million overhaul. Reopening timing was unclear as talks continued.

Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki on Flores, east of Bali, erupted Tuesday, sending a roughly 10km ash plume and prompting Indonesia to raise its alert to the highest level. Dozens of flights to and from Bali were cancelled or disrupted by airlines including Virgin Australia, Jetstar, Air New Zealand, and others, while Bali’s Ngurah Rai airport remains open with selective cancellations. Authorities ordered a 7km exclusion zone, warned of possible lahar floods if heavy rain falls, and advised mask use due to ash. At least one village evacuated and ash fell in several areas; no immediate casualties or damage were reported. The volcano erupted multiple times in November, causing nine deaths and mass evacuations. Indonesia lies on the seismically active Pacific Ring of Fire.

Canada’s intelligence agency (CSIS) publicly accused India of a significant escalation in transnational repression, linking Indian government agents and criminal networks to the 2023 assassination of Sikh activist and Canadian citizen Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey, BC. The report, naming India alongside China, Russia, Iran and Pakistan for foreign interference, was released as Prime Minister Mark Carney met Narendra Modi at the G7 and moved to restore diplomatic relations, drawing backlash from Sikh groups demanding accountability. Canada and India agreed to return high commissioners, while G7 leaders condemned transnational repression without naming India. British Columbia’s premier urged Ottawa to list the Bishnoi gang as a terrorist organization amid allegations of Indian-linked gang extortion in Canada. Four Indian nationals in Canada have been charged in Nijjar’s killing.

An investigation by Unearthed and Greenpeace Africa found large dumps of UK fast-fashion waste from brands including Next, George at Asda, M&S, Zara, H&M and Primark in and around Ghana’s protected Densu delta wetlands, a Ramsar site that hosts endangered sea turtles and migratory birds. With Accra overwhelmed by imports—about 1,000 tonnes weekly to the Kantamanto market and an estimated 70 tonnes a day escaping formal collection—textiles are clogging beaches, waterways and fishing nets, and polluting communities near newly opened, improperly engineered dump sites. Local officials appeared to oversee at least one dump despite policies that prohibit such siting. Brands acknowledged systemic end-of-life challenges and expressed support for extended producer responsibility schemes, while Ghanaian traders and EU advocates push for EPR to hold companies accountable. Residents report degraded water quality, wildlife loss and health nuisances as the fast-fashion waste crisis spreads beyond urban areas into conservation zones.

Researchers tracking wild baboons in Kenya found that female baboons with stronger early-life bonds with their fathers—measured by time spent in the same group and grooming—live two to four years longer as adults than those with weaker paternal ties. The effect was specific to biological fathers; close relationships with other adult males did not predict longevity. The study, involving 216 females and 102 fathers, suggests paternal presence and care, even in species where male involvement is typically limited, may boost daughters’ survival—possibly via protection or other support—though healthier daughters might also simply form better bonds. Longer-lived females can have more offspring, potentially increasing fathers’ evolutionary fitness.

Yvonne Ford, a woman from Barnsley, Yorkshire, died from rabies after being lightly scratched by a stray puppy while on holiday in Morocco. She developed symptoms weeks later and died shortly after diagnosis. The UK Health Security Agency said there is no public risk and is offering vaccinations to close contacts as a precaution. Rabies, typically spread via infected animals’ saliva (often dogs in some countries), is almost always fatal once symptoms appear but can be prevented with prompt wound care and post-exposure treatment. This is the seventh UK-diagnosed rabies case since 2000, all acquired abroad. Ford’s family urged people to take animal exposures seriously and vaccinate pets.

Indonesia’s Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki erupted on June 17, sending an ash plume over six miles high and raining ash and gravel on nearby villages. Authorities raised the volcanic alert level and the National Disaster Management Agency urged evacuations beyond the impact zone. Video showed dramatic ash and smoke columns as officials monitored ongoing activity.

German authorities arrested a 20-year-old dual German-Iranian man in Hamburg, accused of leading roles in “764,” a global online network that targets and coerces children. Prosecutors say he committed over 120 offenses from 2021–2023 against at least eight minors, including sexual exploitation and forcing severe self-harm on live video. He allegedly manipulated a 13-year-old American boy, via another child, to livestream his own suicide. The FBI, which considers 764 akin to a terrorist organization, tipped German police and is pursuing over 250 related cases. Investigators found more than 120 hours of graphic material; the suspect remains in custody.

Catherine, Princess of Wales, unexpectedly skipped the Royal Ascot due to her ongoing recovery from cancer. Reports say she was disappointed to miss the high-profile event but is focusing on balancing health with a gradual return to public duties. Public reaction largely expressed support for her prioritizing recovery. King Charles III and Queen Camilla attended, along with Kate’s mother, Carole Middleton.

A refurbished statue of George Washington briefly puzzled Londoners as it was moved across Trafalgar Square on a flatbed truck, drawing a curious crowd asking if it was indeed Washington. The episode sparked mixed reactions about the American founder’s presence in a prominent British public space, with some seeing it as a symbol of democratic heritage and historical ties, while others questioned its appropriateness.

President Trump ordered Greenland’s transfer from U.S. European Command to U.S. Northern Command, placing Pituffik (Thule) Space Base under NORTHCOM to strengthen Arctic and homeland defense. The Pentagon says the move aligns with defense strategy, enhances coordination with Arctic allies, and supports NORAD’s missile warning and space surveillance missions. While strategically significant amid rising Russian and Chinese Arctic activity, officials expect mostly administrative changes with no major operational disruption.

Nearly 150 days into President Trump’s second term, the U.S. still lacks a confirmed ambassador to the United Nations. After Rep. Elise Stefanik withdrew in March, Trump nominated former National Security Advisor Mike Waltz on May 1, but the Senate Foreign Relations Committee only confirmed receipt of his nomination more than 45 days later and has not scheduled a hearing. While U.S. diplomats continue to represent the country and its Security Council veto remains intact, experts warn that not having a Senate-confirmed ambassador weakens U.S. influence and top-level diplomacy amid multiple global crises, including conflicts involving Iran, Israel, and Russia. Critics note the delay contrasts with the rapid confirmation of other nominees, and argue the absence risks ceding narrative and diplomatic ground to adversaries at the UN.

The article recounts the 1953 CIA- and British-backed coup that overthrew Iran’s democratically elected Prime Minister Mohammad Mossadegh after he moved to nationalize Iran’s oil, seen as a threat by the US and UK during the Cold War. Intelligence services fueled anti-Mossadegh sentiment and organized pro-Shah protests, reinstalling Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi and installing Gen. Fazlollah Zahedi as prime minister, with rapid covert US funding to stabilize the new government. Though formally acknowledged by the US decades later, the intervention bred deep Iranian resentment and long-term anti-American sentiment, contributing to the Shah’s eventual overthrow in the 1979 Islamic Revolution and the rise of the Islamic Republic. The history is resurfacing amid current calls for regime change in Iran.